Magnolia dodecapetala

(Lam.) Govaerts

Magnoliaceae

Results of DNA analysis in various studies (see, for example, R.B. Figlar & H.P. Nooteboom, Blumea 49: 87-100. 2004) have supported the concept that the various genera comprising the subfamily Magnolioideae would be more consistently treated as a single genus, Magnolia. This is the treatment followed here, though it is still not universally accepted[

Common Name:

General Information

Magnolia dodecapetala is a tree with a large, round, well-developed crown; it can grow up to 40 metres tall. The straight, cylindrical bole usually has long buttresses. It can be clear of branches for 12 - 18 metres and up to 90cm in diameter[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

].
A very important timber, said to be superior to that of all other timbers of the Caribbean Archipelago, it is harvested from the wild on a commercial basis[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

]. The tree's majestic appearance, sweetly-scented white flowers, and excellent form make it an attractive ornamental[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Caribbean - Trinidad and Tobago, Leeward Islands, Windward Islands.

Habitat

Generally distributed in the humid, many-storied forests at elevations between 420 - 750 metres. It develops best. in deep, rich, soils in valleys and on level sites at middle elevations in hot, humid climates. It is never found on ridges or slopes[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

].

Properties

Other Uses Rating

Habit

Tree

Height

35.00 m

Cultivation Status

Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Not known

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The heartwood is dull dark brown or black, often streaked with shades of brown; it is sharply demarcated from the white to light yellow sapwood. The texture is fine; the grain straight; when seasoned it is without distinctive odour or taste[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

]. The wood is reported to be hard, tough, and strong, there are mixed reports on durability with some saying the heartwood is never attacked by insects, whilst others say that it is susceptible to termite and fungus attack[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

]. The timber is also reported to be resistant to shock, stress, compression, and tension, and is difficult to split or twist. Its elasticity is also reported as fairly good[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

]. The wood works easily and well, but does not take nails or screws well[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

]. The wood is prized for flooring because of it's stability and the variety of colours present in the heartwood; it is also used extensively in small boat construction and in the hulls of fishing canoes. Other uses include marquetry, interior finish, gunstocks, and furniture[

Quite detailed information on more than 60 species of Caribbean timber trees, giving species descriptions, habitat, detailed info on the wood and some info on other uses. Available for download on the internet.

].

Propagation

Seed -

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